So it appears that the only reason for using a Linux computer outside the empeg is for extracting the netcal program to upload to your 2 empeg units.

Yep. I'll put the binaries up on my webpage in a minute...

If I do that, don't I also have to untar on the receiving unit? I don't see that mentioned in the Lazy Bastard guide...

It definitely mentions 'tar' in both stanzas. One of them before the pipe, one after.

Lastly, has anyone gone through the whole process and made it work?

Yep. Me. Worked a treat. I'll go update the page now.

Edit: Updated the page. Included the binaries.